The monsoon season in India holds a special place in the hearts of Bollywood movie enthusiasts. From rain-soaked romances to soulful melodies, Bollywood classics have captured the essence of this season in a myriad of ways.
As you embark on your monsoon-long drive, the perfect companion to complement the rhythmic pitter-patter of raindrops on your windshield is a carefully curated playlist of timeless Bollywood songs. The below songs range from old classics with memorable melodies which are perfect for the weather and even more perfect to sing along with; coupled with a few newer, foot-tapping numbers that are sure to get you in the groove!
1. Pyaar Hua Ikraar Hua (Movie: Shree 420, 1955)
Composed by Shankar-Jaikishan and sung by the legendary duo Lata Mangeshkar and Manna Dey, this song beautifully captures the innocent love between Raj Kapoor and Nargis. Set against a backdrop of drizzling rain, 'Pyaar Hua Ikraar Hua' remains an eternal symbol of romance and monsoon magic.
2. Dum Dum Diga Diga (Movie: Chhalia, 1960)
A classic rain song, 'Dum Dum Diga Diga' features the evergreen singer Mukesh and the talented lyricist Shailendra. This foot-tapping melody will lift your spirits as you enjoy the beauty of the monsoon on your drive.
3. O Saathi Re (Movie: Muqaddar Ka Sikandar, 1978)
Kishore Kumar's heartfelt rendition of 'O Saathi Re' brilliantly captures the emotions of love and separation in the monsoon season. The song's poignant lyrics and soulful composition by Kalyanji-Anandji make it an essential addition to your playlist.
4. Rimjhim Gire Sawan (Movie: Manzil, 1979)
A soothing melody voiced by Kishore Kumar and picturized by Amitabh Bachchan and Moushumi Chatterjee, "Rimjhim Gire Sawan" perfectly complements the pitter-patter of raindrops on your car roof. The song's soft and romantic tunes make it an ideal choice for a monsoon drive with your loved one.
5. Aaj Rapat Jaaye (Movie: Namak Halaal, 1982)
A peppy and romantic track featuring Amitabh Bachchan and Smita Patil, "Aaj Rapat Jaaye" captures the playful moments between two lovers on a rainy day. The catchy tune and Kishore Kumar and Asha Bhosle's vocals will infuse your long drive with joy and vivacity.
6. Tip Tip Barsa Paani (Movie: Mohra, 1994)
A high-energy and sensuous rain song featuring Raveena Tandon and Akshay Kumar, ‘Tip Tip Barsa Paani’ became an instant hit upon its release. Udit Narayan and Alka Yagnik's powerful vocals, coupled with Viju Shah's composition, make this track a must-have for your monsoon drive playlist.
7. Jo Haal Dil Ka (Movie: Sarfarosh, 1999)
Sung by the legendary Kumar Sanu and Alka Yagnik, 'Jo Haal Dil Ka' brings out the essence of love and desire amidst the rain. The song's melodious composition, along with Aamir Khan and Sonali Bendre's chemistry, makes it a must-have on your monsoon playlist.
8. Barso Re Megha (Movie: Guru, 2007)
This A.R. Rahman composition, beautifully rendered by Shreya Ghoshal, takes you on a journey through the lush green landscapes of Kerala during the monsoon. The song's exuberance and energy make it a delightful addition to your monsoon playlist.
9. Tum Hi Ho (Movie: Aashiqui 2, 2013)
While relatively more recent, ‘Tum Hi Ho’ became an instant classic with Arijit Singh's soulful rendition and Mithoon's heartfelt composition. The song's emotional depth and romantic vibes make it a perfect accompaniment for a monsoon-long drive with your partner.
10. Tum Hi Aana (Movie: Marjaavaan, 2019)
A poignant monsoon song from the movie Marjaavaan, featuring emotive vocals and heartfelt lyrics. The film features Siddharth Malhotra and Tara Sutaria in titular roles, along with Riteish Deshmukh and Rakul Preet Singh. The film didn’t do very well at the box office however this song was a chartbuster.
11. Phir Le Aya Dil - Redux (Movie: Barfi!, 2012)
‘Phir Le Aaya Dil’ from the movie Barfi! is a new-age classic and a super romantic song that is perfect for the monsoon season. This version of the classic song adds a contemporary touch to monsoon emotions and gives it a slightly sensual vibe.
12. Tum Kya Mile (Movie: Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani, 2023)
A romantic track. Shot in the Swiss Alps. A Chiffon saree and a handsome hero - the picturisation and the melody of ‘Tum Kya Mile’ is so dreamy that it is sure to be on anyone’s monsoon playlist. When you are stuck indoors or on a long drive with the pitter-patter sounds coming from outside, this is the perfect song to dream about and sing along to.